FODEP CALLS FOR END TO FREQUENT CONSTITUTIONAL REVIEWS
By Nelson Zulu
The Foundation for Democratic Process-FODEP-says the appetite for frequent constitutional reviews must come to an end, stressing that Zambia needs a stable constitutional framework that is only amended when there is a compelling need.
FODEP President Mwenda Mumbuna said as the UPND administration plans to review the constitution, government must first establish a clear and comprehensive approach to reform instead of repeatedly revisiting the law every few years.
Mr. Mumbuna says the review should prioritize governance reforms aimed at strengthening democratic participation and creating a level playing field for political parties, with key areas, including addressing the use of public resources by incumbents during elections and the movement of politicians between political parties.
He has told Phoenix News that if the administration proceeds with reforms, priority should also be given to the activation of article 60 (4), which provides for political parties to disclose their sources of funding in order to strengthen accountability and transparency in political financing.
Mr. Mumbuna said FODEP wants the review process to produce a constitutional framework that promotes free and fair elections, safeguards the participation of all stakeholders, and addresses weaknesses exposed during previous electoral processes, rather than creating a cycle of repeated constitutional amendments.
PHOENIX NEWS